| | | | | | | | The warm weather has lots of us working to improve our fitness. Dispelling these five fitness myths can help you make the most of your efforts:
1. Myth: You can lose weight just by exercising.
Fact: Physical activity is part of a good weight-loss plan,
but most people also need to cut calories. The right
combination of exercise and calorie control for you will
depend on your body type and metabolism.
2. Myth: You have to work hard for exercise to help.
Fact: A national study found moderate physical activity
works as well as intense exercise for weight reduction.
Walking for an hour a week can also lower heart disease
risk. Try bicycling or swimming.
3. Myth: Yoga is a completely gentle and safe workout.
Fact: Some forms of yoga are physically and mentally
difficult. Injuries are rare, but holding some positions
can cause injury or pain. Seek proper instruction to
assure a safe workout.
4. Myth: Water-fitness is
for older folks and
those recovering
from injury.
Fact: Research
shows it can help just
about anyone and is a
great way to get fit and
lose weight. |  |
5. Myth: Strength training will bulk you up so you won't
lose weight.
Fact: Combining cardiovascular and strength-training
exercises can help maintain a healthy weight. The more
muscles you have, the more calories you burn whatever
you're doing. Generally, lifting heavy weights fewer times
builds larger muscles while lifting lighter weights more
times improves endurance.
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